Guwahati, Assam: In a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure in Assam, the state Cabinet on Friday approved a special land premium concession for the establishment of the Lovlina Boxing Academy near Guwahati. The decision will facilitate the allotment of a four-bigha plot in the Palasbari Revenue Circle at a nominal premium of Re 1.
Announcing the decision after the Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the proposed academy would serve as a dedicated centre for nurturing emerging boxing talent and provide aspiring athletes with access to quality training facilities. He noted that the initiative aims to build a strong grassroots ecosystem for the sport and help produce future champions from the state.
The approval comes shortly after Assam’s celebrated boxer Lovlina Borgohain added another milestone to her career by securing the gold medal in the women’s 75kg category at the Asian Games. Her achievement has been widely hailed as a moment of pride for both Assam and the nation.
Earlier this week, the Chief Minister felicitated Borgohain at Lok Sewa Bhawan and presented her with a cash award of Rs 50 lakh in recognition of her success on the international stage. During the ceremony, he praised her dedication and perseverance, describing her accomplishment as an inspiration for young sportspersons across the country.
Lovlina clinched the Asian Games title after registering a dominant victory over China’s Bao Ziyi in the final, securing the top podium finish in her weight category. The triumph marked a significant chapter in Indian boxing, with the Assam boxer becoming only the second Indian woman to win an Asian Games gold medal in the sport.
The Olympic bronze medallist has consistently been one of India’s leading boxing stars and had previously secured a silver medal in the same weight division at the Hangzhou Asian Games.
Upon her return to Assam, Borgohain received a warm welcome at the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, where political leaders, sports officials, supporters and well-wishers gathered to congratulate her on the landmark achievement.
The proposed academy is expected to play a vital role in promoting boxing in the state, providing structured coaching and modern facilities to young athletes, while carrying forward the legacy of one of Assam’s most accomplished sportspersons.
